Helena, Enterprise, and Other Alabama Cities Join America 250 Celebration
Helena, Alabama, was officially recognized as a Semi-Quincentennial City by America 250 and American Village on Monday, February 23rd, as the nation prepares for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. The recognition came during the regularly scheduled meeting of the Helena City Council, where Natalie Steed from American Village presented a proclamation.
The proclamation highlighted the role Alabama is playing in the nationwide America 250 celebration. “July 4, 2026, marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of the United States of America,” the proclamation stated. “The state of Alabama, through action of the Alabama legislation and the governor, established the Alabama USA Semiquincentennial Commission, America 250 AL, to plan, promote and implement programs, events and commemorations recognizing this historic milestone.”
Helena’s Mayor Billy Rosener, along with council members Andy Healy and Jeff McDaniels – both veterans – and members of the Helena Historic Preservation Committee, joined Steed for the announcement. The council encouraged all residents to participate in the upcoming celebrations.
“America 250 AL seeks to engage all Alabamians and all 67 counties in meaningful reflection, education and celebration of the people, principles and progress that have shaped our nation over the past 250 years,” the proclamation continued. “The city of Helena recognizes the importance of honoring our shared history, educating future generations and celebrating the diverse contributions of all Americans and Alabamians to the ongoing story of our nation.”
Helena wasn’t the only Alabama city receiving this honor. The City of Enterprise also announced its designation as an America250AL Semiquincentennial City on February 24, 2026. Enterprise has formed the Enterprise Honors America’s 250 Committee, led by the Pea River Historical and Genealogical Society, to spearhead local planning and programming for the milestone anniversary.
The Enterprise committee is comprised of community leaders, educators, veterans, business owners, historians, and civic volunteers. Their goal is to guide the city’s efforts to commemorate the Semiquincentennial through inclusive, educational, and community-focused initiatives. Enterprise City Schools are also participating, with each campus officially named a Semiquincentennial School, displaying flags and commemorative banners.
Mayor William E. Cooper expressed pride in Enterprise’s designation, stating, “Our community has a rich history marked by perseverance and triumph over adversity, and this commemoration gives us the opportunity to share that story while honoring the broader American journey.” Planned activities in Enterprise may include educational programs, historical exhibits, community festivals, veteran recognition ceremonies, public art projects, and legacy initiatives.
Beyond Helena and Enterprise, Senator Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, has been elected chairman of the state’s planning efforts for the nation’s 250th anniversary, indicating a widespread commitment to commemorating the event across Alabama.
During the February 23rd Helena City Council meeting, in addition to the America 250 recognition, the council also approved Ordinance No. 1037-2026, setting policies for city boards and committees. They also approved Ordinance No. 1038-2026A, approving the annexation of property into the city. Keith Martin was appointed to the Planning & Zoning Commission as a city administrative official, and a property use agreement was approved for the 2026 Buck Creek Festival and Old Town Live events. Dennis O’Brian was appointed to the Personnel Board.
The Helena City Council will reconvene for its next regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, March 9th, at City Hall. The work session will begin at 5 p.m., followed by the council meeting at 6 p.m.
